Manning’s choice means Texans will face the four-time MVP in 2012

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When quarterback Peyton Manning was placed on waivers by Indianapolis, the Texans figured they wouldn’t have to play him two times a season any more.

When Tennessee owner Bud Adams announced last week that he wanted Manning for the Titans, the Texans knew there was a chance they might, indeed, be playing against him two more times a season.

The Texans will still be playing Manning but only once next season. When Manning selected Denver as his next destination, it meant No. 18 would be back on the Texans’ schedule.

The Texans will travel to Denver for the second time in three years. In 2010, they blew a 17-0 halftime lead at Denver and lost 24-23 when rookie quarterback Tim Tebow led the Broncos to a come-from-behind victory in the last minute.

Because Manning missed last season while recovering from multiple neck operations, he didn’t play against the Texans.

During an interview at the offices of Sports Radio 610 last week, Texans owner Bob McNair was asked about the possibility of playing Manning two times a season if he signed with the Titans.

“It really doesn’t matter,” McNair said with a laugh. “We beat him when he was healthy, and we’ll do it again. I hope he’s healthy, and I hope he plays because he’s a great asset to the league.”

In the Texans’ first nine seasons, they were 2-16 against Manning and the Colts. Manning has thrown 42 touchdown passes against the Texans, the most against any team.